TLDR;
This video features an interview with Paddy Galloway, a YouTube consultant who has worked with top creators like MrBeast. He shares his insights on how to create successful YouTube videos, including understanding your audience, finding great video ideas, writing killer intros and titles, and optimizing thumbnails. He also discusses the future of YouTube and the creator economy.
- Understanding the target audience is crucial for creating successful content.
- Intros should be intriguing and grab the viewer's attention immediately.
- Thumbnails should be recognizable and incorporate branding elements.
- Balancing storytelling with retention is key to keeping viewers engaged.
- YouTube is a powerful platform for creators to build businesses and connect with audiences.
Intro [0:40]
Paddy Galloway, a highly sought-after YouTube consultant, discusses his work with top YouTubers like MrBeast and shares his expertise on the YouTube algorithm. He reveals common mistakes YouTubers make and provides tips for creating better videos. Galloway mentions his hourly rate generally ranges from $500 to $1,000.
Working with MrBeast [2:08]
Paddy Galloway recounts how MrBeast initially contacted him after Galloway's video about MrBeast went viral in 2019. MrBeast reached out for feedback on a video, leading to an immediate offer to hire Galloway. Galloway highlights the importance of understanding the target audience and their preferences when creating content. He advises creators to analyze their best-performing videos and explore similar ideas, adapt content from competitors, and innovate with original concepts.
Finding Great Video Ideas [3:56]
Galloway emphasizes the importance of identifying successful videos and replicating their concepts with slight variations. He also suggests drawing inspiration from broader YouTube trends and adapting them to specific niches. Galloway points to his own channel as an example of "blue ocean" innovation, combining YouTube advice with video essay formats. He mentions spending 50-60 hours on his Peter McKinnon interview video, highlighting his perfectionism.
Writing Killer Intros & Titles [8:56]
Galloway explains that he rewrites intros multiple times to ensure they hook the viewer. He focuses on using intriguing language to pique curiosity and overcome viewers' initial skepticism. He cites his MrBeast video intro as an example of a successful hook, using a line that challenges initial perceptions of MrBeast. Galloway also mentions ghostwriting intros for clients like Noah Kagan, emphasizing the need to be direct and attention-grabbing from the start. He advises using specific numbers and details to create a sense of authenticity.
Thumbnail Breakdown [9:13]
Paddy Galloway discusses the importance of brand recognition in thumbnails. He uses a consistent graph concept with variations in the YouTuber's face and text. He also explains the origin of his "broke YouTube" thumbnail concept, inspired by a Wall Street Journal design. Galloway emphasizes the need to play the game and use sensational language to capture attention.
When It's Okay To Sacrifice Retention [12:02]
Galloway advises creators to sometimes look past short-term retention dips if the content adds value or depth to the story. He believes that focusing solely on micro drops in retention can be detrimental to the overall video.
How To Make Shorts [12:35]
Paddy Galloway views short-form content as intros that need a conclusion. He suggests that a good intro for a YouTube video can also work as a short on platforms like TikTok.
Testing New Formats [15:21]
Galloway shares insights into the creation of Noah Kagan's "doorbell" format, where he asks people how they made money. He reveals that the person opening the door in the thumbnail is often an actor, highlighting the importance of delivering valuable content that overshadows minor details. Galloway emphasizes the importance of setting high standards for video ideas, asking if a video has the potential to reach a million views.
How Paddy Makes $50-100K Per Month [19:11]
Paddy Galloway breaks down his income streams, including YouTube AdSense (10%), speaking engagements (10%), affiliate marketing (10%), consulting (50%), and brand deals. He mentions consulting for seven creators and a Fortune 500 company. Galloway handles brand deal negotiations himself, earning between $50,000 and $100,000 per month.
Future of YouTube [19:11]
Galloway predicts a fusion of storytelling and retention strategies in the future of YouTube. He believes creators will continue to expand their influence, potentially surpassing traditional companies. He also notes that when he works with creators, he often suggests adding more depth to their content, rather than just focusing on fast-paced, attention-grabbing elements.